USGS

The correct answer is **(c) To collect, analyze, and disseminate scientific information about the Earth and its resources.**

The correct answer is **(c) National Water-Use Information Program**. This program focuses on water availability and use, not directly on water quality.

The correct answer is **(b) By providing data on water demand, supply, and allocation patterns.** This information helps water treatment facilities plan for future needs and optimize resource management.

The correct answer is **(a) It helps to identify potential contamination risks and guide groundwater protection strategies.** This information is crucial for developing effective treatment methods and protecting groundwater resources.

The correct answer is **(c) Through its website and open data portals.** This ensures that researchers, water managers, and the general public can easily access critical information.

Here is a possible solution:

1. Data Types:

• Water Use Information: The USGS National Water-Use Information Program provides data on water demand trends across various sectors, including residential, industrial, and agricultural. This information helps assess current and future water consumption patterns and identify potential areas of growth.
• Groundwater Level Data: Monitoring data from the USGS on groundwater levels and flow patterns provides insight into the availability of this crucial resource. It helps understand the potential for utilizing groundwater as a supplementary source and evaluate potential impacts of increased water demand on groundwater resources.
• Water Quality Data: The USGS National Water-Quality Assessment Program collects data on contaminants and pollutants in surface and groundwater. This data is crucial for determining the quality of raw water supply, identifying potential contaminants of concern, and designing appropriate treatment processes to ensure safe drinking water.

2. Decision-Making Applications:

• Water Use Information: Helps project future water demand, assess the need for facility expansion, and prioritize water conservation efforts.
• Groundwater Level Data: Guides decisions on groundwater extraction, potential for well development, and management strategies to ensure sustainable use.
• Water Quality Data: Informs treatment process design, identifies necessary filtration or disinfection technologies, and ensures compliance with regulatory standards.

3. Potential Risk and USGS Solutions:

Risk: A drought event could significantly reduce surface water availability, creating a challenge for meeting water demand.

USGS Solutions:

• Drought Monitoring: The USGS provides drought monitoring information and predictions, allowing for proactive planning and implementation of water conservation measures.
• Groundwater Availability Assessment: Utilizing USGS data on groundwater levels and flow patterns can help determine the potential for using groundwater as a supplemental source during drought conditions.
• Climate Change Impacts Research: The USGS studies the impacts of climate change on water resources, providing insights into long-term trends and informing adaptation strategies for water management and drought preparedness.